| Summary: | The stark statistics revealing the high prevalence of exposure to Internet pornography demand a robust and strategic response from government agencies, communities, and society at large. In the contemporary digital age, the proliferation of high-speed Internet has led to a concerning statistic: a staggering 93% of male children and 62% of female children are exposed to Internet pornography before reaching the age of 18. This pervasive exposure is primarily attributed to the widespread and easily accessible nature of the Internet, especially among young people, including children. Recognising the potential ramifications of this issue, the focus of this study is to delve into the consequences of cybersex addiction in children from the perspective of policymakers. Utilising a qualitative research approach, this paper conducted in-depth interviews (IDIs) involving six key individuals representing relevant agencies, including the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, National Population and Family Development Board, Hospital, and the Royal Malaysian Police. This study aims to explore the consequences of cybersex addiction among children: psychological damage and physical damage. Psychological damage encompasses a range of issues such as mental health problems, diminished academic performance, aggressive behavior, a distorted perception of the pleasures of sex, and a weakening of children's memory. On the physical front, cybersex addiction is associated with engaging in pre-marital sex and adverse effects on family relationships. These repercussions pose a significant threat to the well-being and development of the younger generation. Should the trajectory of cybersex addiction among children persist unchecked, the nation faces the imminent challenge of grappling with widespread Internet abuse in the future. In conclusion, it is imperative for the entire community, including government agencies, to actively assume their roles and responsibilities in creating a safe and healthy online environment for children. Addressing this issue collectively is crucial for fostering the well-rounded development of the younger generation and safeguarding the nation’s future. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024.
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